What is Ed Parker's American Kenpo?

What a question! Kenpo is an ancient martial art, with a 2000 year history that spans the globe. Ed Parker's American Kenpo is a modern edition of this art known for employing up to date scientific principles not utilized by many other systems.

Edmund K. Parker, Sr. was one of the true pioneers of Karate in the United States and was the first to create a truly American system of Karate. Because of this, and because he opened America's first professional Karate studio in 1956, he has been called the father of American Karate.

American Kenpo is known for its realistic approach to self-defense. It is known for its fast and powerful striking, as well as powerful kicking and vertical grappling.

Even though most people outside of Kenpo primarily see it as a system of self-defense, at UKK we stress the importance of becoming a complete Martial Artist. Students gain self confidence, respect, and a thirst for knowledge and self development.